Punjab judiciary syllabus
Punjab Judiciary Examination Syllabus
1. Overview of Punjab Judicial Service Exam
The Punjab Judicial Service Exam is conducted for recruitment of Civil Judges (Junior Division) and Judicial Magistrates in Punjab. The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of substantive law, procedural law, constitutional law, and language skills, all essential for judicial functions.
The exam generally consists of:
Preliminary Exam (Objective/Screening)
Main Exam (Written)
Viva Voce (Interview)
2. Subjects Covered in the Syllabus
The Punjab Judiciary syllabus closely follows the traditional judicial exam pattern covering:
A. Civil Law
Indian Contract Act, 1872
Principles of contract formation, breach, remedies.
Specific Relief Act, 1963
Remedies like specific performance, injunctions.
Transfer of Property Act, 1882
Sale, mortgage, lease, and other property transfers.
Civil Procedure Code (CPC), 1908
Procedure of suits, pleadings, execution, appeals.
Limitation Act, 1963
Time limits for filing suits and appeals.
Indian Succession Act, 1925 (Relevant parts)
Laws relating to wills and inheritance.
B. Criminal Law
Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860
General principles and specific offences.
Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973
Investigation, trial, bail, appeals, and revisions.
Indian Evidence Act, 1872 (Applicable portions)
Burden of proof, admissibility of evidence.
C. Constitutional Law
Fundamental Rights and Duties.
Directive Principles of State Policy.
Structure and powers of the judiciary.
Union and State Legislative relations.
Important Articles related to judicial powers and fundamental rights.
D. General Knowledge and Language
English Language or Punjabi Language (depending on candidate’s choice)
Comprehension, précis writing, essay, drafting.
Current affairs, especially related to legal developments and the judiciary.
3. Important Case Laws to Know
Since judicial service exams test legal principles through landmark cases, candidates should be familiar with the following:
Civil Law
Lalman Shukla v. Gauri Dutt (1913)
Case on communication of offer and acceptance in contract law.
Hadley v. Baxendale (1854) (English case but authoritative)
On foreseeability of damages in contract breaches.
Criminal Law
Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978)
Expanded the scope of Article 21 - due process and natural justice.
K.M. Nanavati v. State of Maharashtra (1962)
Important case on criminal homicide and procedural aspects.
State of Rajasthan v. Kashi Ram (2006)
Burden of proof in criminal cases.
Constitutional Law
Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
Established the Basic Structure Doctrine.
S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994)
Landmark judgment on misuse of Article 356 (President’s Rule).
Minerva Mills Ltd. v. Union of India (1980)
Balancing Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
4. Important Acts and Their Application
Thorough knowledge of the CPC and CrPC is critical as these govern procedural aspects.
Understanding IPC sections and evidentiary rules is necessary for criminal adjudication.
Constitutional provisions form the backbone of judicial power and individual rights protection.
5. Examination Pattern (General)
| Stage | Subjects/Components | Type of Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary Exam | Objective questions from law and GK | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Main Exam (Written) | Civil Law, Criminal Law, Constitutional Law | Descriptive/Essay questions |
| Language Paper | English or Punjabi (choice) | Comprehension, Drafting |
| Viva-Voce | Interview to test legal knowledge, personality, judicial aptitude | Oral Examination |
6. Preparation Tips for Punjab Judiciary Exam
Read bare acts thoroughly along with relevant commentaries.
Analyze leading judgments mentioned above and understand their legal principles.
Practice case laws and understand application in factual situations.
Develop strong language skills in English or Punjabi for drafting and comprehension.
Stay updated on recent judgments and legal reforms affecting Punjab and India.
7. Conclusion
The Punjab Judiciary Exam syllabus emphasizes a strong foundation in substantive and procedural laws, constitutional principles, and language proficiency. Familiarity with landmark case laws and the ability to apply legal reasoning is essential for success.
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